Prison reform at heart of Queen’s Speech

Queen Elizabeth on Wednesday set out the British government’s new legislative program, including an overhaul of the prison system and plans to tackle extremism.

“My government will use the opportunity of a strengthening economy to deliver security for working people, to increase life chances for the most disadvantaged and to strengthen national defenses,” the Queen said.

Arguments over Brexit were put aside as MPs of all stripes watched the pomp and pageantry of the Queen’s Speech, as the monarch gave details of the government’s plans as part of the official opening of parliament.

She gave the details of 20 bills, promising social reforms including a prisons shake-up that foresees the use of satellite tagging for inmates due for release or already out on license. In the long term, such prisoners could be allowed to spend weekends in jail and weekdays at home, allowing them to work.

British Prime Minister David Cameron said the plans for reforming prisons would stop jails being “warehouses for criminals.”

Other proposals include banning hate preachers from working with children and other vulnerable groups, a British bill of rights to replace the Human Rights Act, and giving British expats the right to vote.

According to the Guardian, Cameron was keen to show his legislative agenda goes beyond campaigning against Brexit.

Cameron said: “In the past six years, whether in education or welfare, this government has consistently demonstrated that we will take on difficult arguments, make difficult choices and undertake big and bold reforms to spread opportunity. This Queen’s Speech is no different.”